Sarasota County Health Department offers shingles vaccine for
adults 50 years old and older. Caused by the same virus
associated with chickenpox, shingles is more common and serious in
older adults.
Health officials estimate that 1 out of 3 people in the
U.S. will
develop shingles during their lifetime. For some, the
blistering skin rash can lead to severe pain that can last for
months or even years. Other complications of shingles include eye
problems and less often pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness and
brain inflammation (encephalitis). In rare instances, shingles can
also lead to death.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the
vaccine for use in those 50 years of age and older. The vaccine,
which is 60 percent effective in preventing shingles, has few if any
side effects.
Cost & Medicare Part D information
The shingles vaccine costs $179.31. If you are covered for the
vaccine through Medicare Part D, you may only be required to pay
your co-pay amount. Be sure to bring your card with you at the
time of vaccination.
